Kovio is one of a number of companies developing ultracheap alternatives to conventional microchips by replacing conventional photolithography methods with printing techniques. Such processes produce larger transistors than conventional chip-making methods — a printed chip might have a thousand transistors, rather than hundreds of millions — and won't likely compete with the microchips used in computing or consumer electronics.

RFID is one technology that has innumerable applications, whether it be individuals or businesses. It's the cost factor for electronic tracking technology that will get a boost from Kovio's technology.